A regional crisis has unfolded as the Israel-Iran conflict escalated, forcing the shutdown of airports across the Middle East. Dozens of airports have suspended all flights or significantly reduced operations, leaving tens of thousands of passengers stranded and unable to flee the conflict or travel home.
The conflict began with Israeli strikes near a hotel in Iran’s Qom province, prompting Iranian retaliation with hundreds of drones and missiles. As a result, airspace across the region has been severely restricted. Israel has closed its main international airport, Ben Gurion Airport, until further notice, while airports in Lebanon and Jordan remain partially open.
The impact on passengers is dire, with many stranded locally and abroad due to flight cancellations and disruptions. Indian university students, including those studying in Iran, are among the thousands unable to leave due to the conflict. Iraqi airports have also closed due to its proximity to Iran, while some Iraqis opted for land travel through neighboring Turkey.
The crisis has raised concerns of a wider conflict in the region, with many fearing waves of attacks across their skies every night. The economic implications are significant, as aviation expert John Cox warned of a “massive” domino effect on air travel, resulting in a substantial price tag for passengers and airlines alike.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/israel-iran-mideast-iraq-airports-airspace-closures-ebd0d9ea8362f2ecd06ceabc0cc40e7c